A Michigan judge sentenced former University of Michigan football head coach Sherrone Moore to 18 months of supervised probation Tuesday, allowing him to avoid prison time following his plea agreement on trespassing and telecommunications charges.
Moore received a fine exceeding $1,000 and must comply with a no-contact order regarding staff member Paige Shiver, with whom he had conducted an extramarital affair. The court also prohibited him from consuming drugs or alcohol throughout his probation period.
The 40-year-old former coach entered a no contest plea last month to reduced misdemeanor charges of malicious telecommunications use and trespassing. Prosecutors in Michigan’s Washtenaw County dropped more serious allegations in the plea agreement, including a third-degree felony home invasion charge.
District Court Judge J. Cedric Simpson explained his reasoning for the sentence, stating: “I don’t believe, when I look at the entirety of this situation, that incarceration should be appropriate. I warn you Mr. Moore, should there be a violation, all bets are off. I don’t like sending people to jail, but I don’t have a problem doing it.”
The judge credited Moore’s clean criminal record in his decision to avoid imprisonment. Simpson also acknowledged the support shown by Moore’s wife Kelli, describing her as the person “saving you from the full wrath of this court.” The couple has appeared together at each court hearing, holding hands while entering and leaving the building.
Moore addressed the court with a prepared statement expressing gratitude for his faith and his wife’s support. Both declined to speak with reporters following the hearing.
Defense attorney Ellen Michaels spoke on behalf of her client, telling media representatives: “Sherrone is grateful for this matter to be resolved and he and his wife Kelli are ready to move forward with their family and focus on the next chapter.”
The University of Michigan terminated Moore’s employment for cause on December 10th due to his ongoing relationship with his executive assistant. According to authorities, Moore went to the woman’s apartment on the same day he lost his job. The alleged victim reported that he forced his way inside, seized two butter knives, and cornered her in a threatening manner.
Law enforcement arrested Moore following the incident, and he remained in custody for two days. The initial charges carried potential penalties of up to five years imprisonment and included home invasion, stalking, and breaking and entering.
Moore compiled a 16-8 coaching record at Michigan after replacing Jim Harbaugh, where he had previously worked as offensive coordinator. Both coaches faced scrutiny during a sign-stealing scandal related to the school’s 2023 national championship season, resulting in Moore serving a two-game suspension.
